Jeremiah 42:10

Matthew Henry on Jeremiah 42:7–end

We have here the answer which Jeremiah was sent to deliver to those who employed him to ask counsel of God. I. It did not come immediately, not till ten days after, Jer 42:7. They were thus long held in suspense, perhaps, to punish them for their hypocrisy or to show that Jeremiah did not speak of himself, nor what he would, for he could not speak when he would, but must wait for instructions. However, it teaches us to continue waiting upon God for direction in our way. The vision is for an appointed time, and at the end it shall speak. II. When it did come he delivered it publicly, both to the captains and to all the people, from the meanest to those in the highest station; he delivered it…

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Jeremiah 42:10

If ye . . . abide--namely, under the Babylonian authority, to which God hath appointed that all should be subject (Dan 2:37-38). To resist was to resist God. build . . . plant--metaphor for, I will firmly establish you (Jer 24:6). I repent . . . of the evil-- (Jer 18:8; Deu 32:36). I am satisfied with the punishment I have inflicted on you, if only you add not a new offense [GROTIUS]. God is said to "repent," when He alters His outward ways of dealing.

John Gill on Jeremiah 42:10

If ye will still abide in this land,.... In the land of Judea, their native country, where they had always lived, and where they continued when their brethren were carried captive; and yet they thought of going out of it, which the Lord knew; and therefore to encourage them to abide in it, and not think of departing into Egypt; that if they would take up their residence in it, and determine to continue there, he thus promises them: then will I build you, and not pull you down: and I will plant you, and not pluck you up; that is, they should be firm and stable, happy and prosperous; and abound with all kind of blessings, and increase in numbers, wealth, and riches. The metaphors are taken f…

John Calvin